Otira Valley, Arthur’s Pass trip report by Jane Coulter
Leader Pol Syrett
As you can see from the image above several of our members ventured out to explore the Upper Otira Valley. Just a short walk from the road we were able to find alpine flowers, butterflies, dragonflies, and alpine scenery to photograph. It was very exciting to find hooded orchids, sundews, Aciphylla, Eyebrights, Everlasting Daisies, and Gentians in bud. Further up the valley Murry had found a rare Rock Wren, which I too had to photograph having never seen one before.
It was a fabulous day out, a bit cool and windy, but much more interesting than a bright sunny day. After lunch in the carpark we explored the Dobson Nature Walk and the Tarns at the top of the pass. More interesting things were found but couldn’t beat the beautiful natural garden on the side of the track up the Otira Valley. At the end of the day we stopped Arthurs Pass Village for a much needed shot of caffeine.
More images on flickr
